Crumpets have been a staple in British cuisine for generations, known for their spongy texture and delectable taste. They're typically enjoyed at breakfast or teatime, perfect with a smear of butter or jam. What's even better is that you can now make these delightful treats in an air fryer! This method not only cuts the traditional cooking time but also gives them that perfectly crispy exterior. In this article, we’ll dive deep into how you can make crumpets using an air fryer, right from the comfort of your home.
Ingredients
- 250g plain flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp yeast
- 300ml warm milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Gradually add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until you achieve a smooth batter.
Step 2: Letting the Batter Rise
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the batter rise in a warm place for about an hour. This will allow the yeast to activate fully, resulting in the perfect airy texture that crumpets are known for.
Step 3: Prepping the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C. If your air fryer doesn't have temperature settings, choose a medium setting. Lightly grease some crumpet rings and the base of the air fryer basket with oil, to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Cooking the Crumpets
Gently stir the batter to knock out excess air. Place the crumpet rings in the air fryer basket and ladle the batter into each ring until they're about half full. Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes or until the tops have set and you see bubbles; the bottoms should be golden brown.
Step 5: Serving
Carefully remove the crumpets from the air fryer and take them out of the rings. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favourite toppings like butter, jam, or honey.
Tips for Perfect Crumpets
- Ensure your milk is warm but not too hot, as overly hot milk can kill the yeast.
- For added flavour, try experimenting with other spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg.
- If you prefer crispy crumpets, increase the air frying time slightly.
- Always allow the crumpets to cool for a few minutes after cooking to ensure they set properly.
Making crumpets in an air fryer is not only simple but provides a modern twist to a traditional method. Enjoying homemade crumpets doesn’t have to be a timely or complicated process with this approach. So next time you're in the mood for something quintessentially British, remember this easy and rewarding recipe!